Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has said the team believes it can go on to win the T20 World Cup after delivering their best performance of the tournament to secure a place in the Super Eights. Pakistan crushed Namibia by 102 runs in Colombo, bouncing back strongly after their loss to arch-rivals India had left them on the brink of elimination.
Pakistan posted an imposing total of 199/3, thanks to an unbeaten maiden T20 international century by opener Sahibzada Farhan. The bowlers then dismantled Namibia’s batting lineup, with Usman Tariq and Shadab Khan sharing seven wickets, as Namibia were bowled out for 97 in 17.3 overs.
Shadab Khan: Pakistan ‘On the Right Track’
Reflecting on the performance, Shadab said Pakistan remained focused despite criticism following their defeat to India.
“We didn’t take this game lightly after so much talk about one match against India. We are on the right track to achieve the goal of winning the World Cup and we are following a process,” Shadab said.
Shadab also contributed with the bat, scoring a quick 36 off 22 balls, and picked up 3/19 with the ball, playing a key role in Pakistan’s comprehensive victory.
Super Eights Will Be Tough: Shadab
Shadab warned that the upcoming Super Eights stage will be a significant step up in competition. Pakistan will face New Zealand in Colombo on Saturday, followed by matches against England and co-hosts Sri Lanka next week.
“There are eight good teams, so it will be a tough stage and all matches will be high-pressure games,” he added.
Namibia Reflect on Tough Campaign
Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus admitted the team had plenty to learn after losing all four of their group matches and exiting the tournament.
“I think for us, it’s always about nailing those specialist positions. It has been a great learning experience and will help us in future,” Erasmus said.
He added that Namibia are now looking ahead to the ODI World Cup next year, which they will co-host with South Africa and Zimbabwe.
“There is a lot of cricket around and lots of really exciting things happening in and around cricket in Namibia, which gives the boys a lot of pleasing things to play for.”